What's happened
On November 7, 2025, Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) agreed to a US- and Arab-led proposal for a three-month humanitarian ceasefire amid a brutal two-year conflict with the Sudanese army. The RSF's acceptance follows its recent capture of El-Fasher, Darfur's last army stronghold, amid reports of mass killings and atrocities. The Sudanese army has yet to respond to the truce offer.
What's behind the headline?
The RSF's Ceasefire Acceptance: Strategic or Genuine?
The RSF's agreement to the US- and Arab-backed ceasefire proposal is a pivotal moment but should be viewed with caution. Coming shortly after their brutal takeover of El-Fasher, marked by mass killings, sexual violence, and starvation, the RSF appears to be responding to mounting international pressure rather than signaling a genuine commitment to peace. The Sudanese army's refusal to endorse the truce, demanding RSF withdrawal from civilian areas and disarmament, underscores the deep mistrust and ongoing power struggle.
Regional and International Dynamics
The involvement of the Quad—United States, Egypt, UAE, and Saudi Arabia—reflects complex geopolitical interests. The UAE's alleged arms support to the RSF contrasts with Egypt and Saudi Arabia's backing of the army, complicating mediation efforts. This external influence risks prolonging the conflict and undermining impartial peace negotiations.
Humanitarian Catastrophe and Civilian Impact
The war has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises, with over 12 million displaced and widespread famine. The RSF's control over Darfur and parts of southern Sudan, coupled with the army's hold on northern and eastern regions, risks partitioning the country along east-west lines, further destabilizing the region.
Forecast and Consequences
Without the army's acceptance, the ceasefire is unlikely to hold, and fighting will continue, especially as the RSF pushes eastward toward Kordofan and Khartoum. The international community must intensify pressure on both sides to prevent further atrocities and facilitate humanitarian aid. The conflict's resolution hinges on a political process inclusive of all stakeholders, but current divisions and external influences make this challenging.
Relevance to the Reader
This conflict affects global stability, migration flows, and humanitarian aid priorities. Understanding the dynamics helps contextualize international responses and the challenges of conflict resolution in geopolitically sensitive regions.
What the papers say
The New Arab highlights Egypt's diplomatic efforts and condemnation of atrocities in El-Fasher, quoting Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty's call for a comprehensive ceasefire and political process. All Africa reports the RSF's acceptance of the ceasefire proposal and the Sudanese army's outright rejection, emphasizing the US-led Quartet's mediation and international condemnation of RSF abuses. The New York Times provides detailed accounts of RSF atrocities in El-Fasher, including mass killings and sexual violence, and notes the UN's urgent response and skepticism about the ceasefire's viability without army agreement. France 24 and Al Jazeera focus on the ongoing violence despite ceasefire talks, with France 24 warning of RSF preparations for further offensives and Al Jazeera reporting recent attacks and the army's conditions for a truce. The Independent and SBS underline the humanitarian crisis, citing reports of starvation, displacement, and the collapse of aid infrastructure. The Times of Israel and Reuters provide insights into US diplomatic efforts and the broader geopolitical context involving the Quad countries. These sources collectively paint a picture of a fragile ceasefire proposal amid deep mistrust, ongoing violence, and a dire humanitarian situation.
How we got here
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a conflict between the Sudanese army and the RSF, a paramilitary group formerly allied with the army. The war erupted over power struggles following the 2019 uprising and has killed tens of thousands, displaced millions, and caused widespread famine. The RSF's recent capture of El-Fasher, the last army stronghold in Darfur, intensified international concern over atrocities and humanitarian collapse.
Go deeper
- What are the main obstacles to a lasting ceasefire in Sudan?
- How is the international community involved in Sudan's conflict?
- What is the humanitarian situation in Darfur and other affected regions?
Common question
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What’s the Latest on Sudan’s Ongoing Conflict and Peace Efforts?
Sudan’s conflict has entered a critical phase, with recent clashes and failed ceasefire talks raising concerns worldwide. Despite international efforts led by the US and regional powers, peace remains elusive. If you’re wondering what’s happening on the ground, why peace talks keep failing, and what the future might hold, you’re in the right place. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest developments in Sudan’s crisis.
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What Are the Key Conflicts Happening Around the World Right Now?
Global conflicts continue to shape the news, affecting millions and influencing international relations. From ongoing wars to diplomatic tensions, understanding these conflicts helps us grasp the current geopolitical landscape. Below, we explore the most pressing issues, their impact on civilians, and the prospects for peace in troubled regions.
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What’s the latest on the Sudan conflict and peace efforts?
The ongoing conflict in Sudan has captured global attention, especially with recent developments like the RSF's acceptance of a humanitarian ceasefire and the capture of key territories. Many are wondering what this means for peace, the humanitarian crisis, and the future of Sudan. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the current situation and what might happen next.
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What is the current status of the Sudan ceasefire?
The conflict in Sudan has been ongoing for over two years, causing widespread suffering and instability. Recently, there has been a significant development as the RSF, one of the main factions, accepted a US-led ceasefire proposal. But what does this mean for the future of peace in Sudan? Below, we explore the latest updates, the key players involved, and what might happen next in this complex situation.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Staying updated with the latest global events is crucial in today's fast-paced world. From conflicts and political shifts to natural disasters and military actions, understanding what's happening around the world helps you stay informed and prepared. Below, you'll find answers to some of the most common questions about today's top news stories, giving you a clear picture of the current international landscape.
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Is the Sudan ceasefire holding or breaking down?
The conflict in Sudan has entered a critical phase, with recent developments raising questions about whether the ceasefire is holding or breaking down. After the RSF accepted a proposed truce, concerns remain about ongoing violence, atrocities, and the overall stability of peace efforts. Here’s what you need to know about the current situation, the key players involved, and what it means for civilians caught in the conflict.
More on these topics
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Sudan, officially the Republic of the Sudan, is a country in North-East Africa. It is bordered by Egypt to the north, Libya to the northwest, Chad to the west, the Central African Republic to the southwest, South Sudan to the south, Ethiopia to the southe
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The Rapid Support Forces are Sudanese paramilitary forces operated by the Sudanese Government. The RSF grew out of, and is primarily composed of, the Janjaweed militias which fought on behalf of the Sudanese government during the War in Darfur, killing an
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
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Saudi Arabia, officially the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a country in Western Asia constituting the bulk of the Arabian Peninsula.
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The United Arab Emirates, sometimes simply called the Emirates, is a sovereign state in Western Asia at the northeast end of the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf, bordering Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south and west, as well as sharing m
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Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman al-Burhan is a Sudanese politician and Sudanese Army general who is currently serving as Chairman of the Sovereignty Council of Sudan, the country's collective transitional head of state.
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Khartoum or Khartum is the capital of Sudan. With a population of 5,274,321, its metropolitan area is the largest in Sudan, the sixth-largest in Africa, the second-largest in North Africa, and the fourth-largest in the Arab world.
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The Sudanese Armed Forces are the military forces of the Republic of the Sudan. During the 39-month transition to democracy that started in September 2019, the August 2019 Draft Constitutional Declaration defines the Supreme Commander of the Sudanese Arme
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The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.